Idle Dice and Rodney Jenkins: Two True Legends in Show Jumping History

Initial Career as a Racehorse

Early Failures and Challenges

Idle Dice's journey to greatness was not without its challenges. Initially, he was trained as a racehorse, but his early career was marked by failures and setbacks. Despite his impressive pedigree, Idle Dice struggled to find success on the racetrack.

Transition to Hunter & Show Jumping

Recognising Idle Dice's potential beyond the racetrack, his owners made the pivotal decision to transition him to the hunter ring. This move would prove to be a turning point in his career and provided Idle Dice with the platform to showcase his true talents.

The Turning Point: Bernie Traurig and Harry R. Gill

Bernie Traurig's Influence

One of the key figures in Idle Dice's early development was Bernie Traurig. Traurig, a skilled horseman, played a significant role in shaping Idle Dice's future. Under Traurig's guidance, Idle Dice was campaigned as a hunter, gaining valuable experience and honing his skills. Indeed it was Bernie Traurig who suggested that Rodney Jenkins take the ride on Idle Dice.

Campaigning as a Hunter

During his time as a hunter, Idle Dice began to demonstrate the qualities that would later define his show jumping career. His agility, intelligence, and natural talent for jumping became increasingly evident. This phase of his career allowed him to build a strong foundation.

Acquisition by Harry R. Gill

The next significant chapter in Idle Dice's journey came when he was acquired by Harry R. Gill, a future Show Jumping Hall of Famer. Gill purchased Idle Dice for $12,500 in the mid-1960s, recognising the horse's untapped potential. This acquisition marked a turning point in Idle Dice's career.

Purchase and Initial Impressions

Gill's initial impressions of Idle Dice were overwhelmingly positive. He saw in the horse a unique combination of talent, intelligence, and determination. These qualities, coupled with Gill's training and guidance, would prove to be a winning formula.

Early Training and Development

Under Gill's watchful eye, Idle Dice underwent rigorous training and development. Gill focused on refining Idle Dice's jumping technique, enhancing his agility, and building his stamina. This period of intensive training laid the groundwork for Idle Dice's future success.

The Rise to Stardom with Rodney Jenkins

The Red Rider: Rodney Jenkins

One of the most iconic partnerships in the history of show jumping was that of Idle Dice and Rodney Jenkins, known as "The Red Rider." Jenkins, a highly skilled and accomplished rider, formed a legendary partnership with Idle Dice that would lead to numerous victories and accolades.

Partnership and Chemistry

The partnership between Jenkins and Idle Dice was characterised by a deep bond and mutual respect. Jenkins' ability to understand and communicate with Idle Dice was unparalleled. This chemistry was a key factor in their success.

Rodney described him as the nicest horse he ever rode. He praised Idle Dice's bravery, scope, and intelligence, highlighting the qualities that made him a champion.

Rodney Jenkins, reflecting on his time with Idle Dice, once said,

“Dice was a wonderful horse, but I was like 20 years old when I rode him. He was much smarter than I was, and I was a little in awe of him. I didn’t appreciate how good he was. The horse was so sensitive to everything; he was very smart.”

These words from Jenkins highlight the unique bond between horse and rider, a partnership that was both inspiring and dominant.

Training Regimen and Techniques

Jenkins employed a rigorous training regimen and innovative techniques to maximise Idle Dice's potential. Their training sessions were characterised by a focus on agility, precision, and endurance. Jenkins' expertise and dedication to training played a crucial role in honing Idle Dice's skills.

Major Victories and Achievements

Idle Dice's contributions to the sport were recognized when he became one of the first inductees into the Show Jumping Hall of Fame in 1987.

Idle Dice's career was marked by an impressive array of victories and achievements winning Grand Prix, Speed, and Puissance classes, often all at the same show.

Over the course of his career, he secured more than 200 event victories, including 31 Grand Prix competitions and he represented the United States Equestrian Team (USET) for five years, including competing at the 1974 World Championships in Europe.These victories solidified his status as one of the greatest show jumping horses of all time.

Grand Prix Wins

Some of Idle Dice's most notable Grand Prix wins include triumphs at prestigious events such as New York, Devon, Detroit, and Cleveland. These victories showcased his exceptional talent and ability to compete at the highest level of the sport.

American Gold Cup Triumphs

Idle Dice's dominance in the American Gold Cup was particularly noteworthy. He won the American Gold Cup from 1973 to 1975, a remarkable achievement that highlighted his consistency and excellence in the sport.

President's Cup Success

Idle Dice's success extended to the President's Cup at the Washington International, where he became the only horse to win the prestigious event twice. This accomplishment further cemented his legacy as a show jumping icon.

Financial Success and Earnings

Idle Dice's career was not only marked by victories but also by significant financial success. In the course of his career he earned over $400,000, a sum equivalent to more than $1.5 million today. His ability to consistently perform at a high level translated into significant earnings, underscoring his value and impact in the world of show jumping.

Impact on the Show Jumping Circuit

Idle Dice's achievements had a profound impact on the show jumping circuit. His success helped elevate the profile of Grand Prix jumping in the United States, inspiring future generations of riders and horses to pursue excellence in the sport.

Retirement and Legacy

Retirement at Gill's Pennsylvania Farm

Idle Dice retired at the age of 24 in September 1986, marking the end of a 20-year career. He spent his retirement at Gill's Pennsylvania farm, where he was visited by fans from across the country. This period of retirement allowed Idle Dice to enjoy a well-deserved rest after a long and successful career.

During his retirement, Idle Dice continued to capture the hearts of equestrian enthusiasts. Fans from all over the country visited Gill's farm to see the legendary horse, reflecting his enduring popularity and impact on the sport.

Idle Dice's retirement attracted significant public interest, with fans eager to see the horse that had achieved so much in the world of show jumping. His continued popularity during retirement is a testament to his lasting legacy and the profound impact he had on the sport.

Retirement Ceremony and Celebrations

Idle Dice's retirement ceremony was an emotional event, celebrating his contributions to the sport and his role in elevating Grand Prix jumping in the United States. The ceremony marked the end of an era and highlighted the profound impact Idle Dice had on the world of show jumping.

Emotional Farewell Event

The retirement ceremony in September 1986 was a fitting tribute to Idle Dice's remarkable 20-year career. During this time, Idle Dice earned the equivalent of over $1.5 million in today’s currency and won more than 200 events.

Remarkably, he clinched three Grand Prix victories at the age of 21, during the final year of his career.

It was an emotional farewell event that celebrated his achievements and the lasting legacy he left behind. The ceremony was attended by fans, fellow competitors, and members of the equestrian community.

Leonard King, president of the American Grand Prix Association, expressed the significance of Idle Dice’s contribution to the sport:

"He won everything that was possible to win. The combination of Rodney Jenkins and Idle Dice was unbeatable. It's going to be a very emotional moment when they walk into that ring."

Contributions to the Sport

Idle Dice's contributions to the sport of show jumping are immeasurable. His success helped elevate the profile of Grand Prix jumping in the United States, inspiring future generations of riders and horses to pursue excellence in the sport. His legacy continues to be celebrated by equestrian enthusiasts, horse breeders, and competitive riders.

Conclusion

Idle Dice's Transformation and Resilience

Idle Dice's story is one of transformation, resilience, and excellence. From his early failures as a racehorse to his remarkable success in show jumping, Idle Dice's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination. His legacy continues to inspire and influence the sport.

Celebrating a Beloved Show Jumping Figure

Idle Dice's legacy continues to be celebrated by equestrian enthusiasts, horse breeders, and competitive riders. His remarkable career and lasting impact on the sport have earned him a place in the annals of show jumping history.

Sources:
Show Jumping Hall of Fame
Sport Horse Breeder
Bernie Traurig
The Plaid Horse